Toronto FC announce year-end roster moves

After a stinkbomb of a season in MLS, Toronto FC have announced roster moves Tuesday ahead of the 2019 preseason.

The Reds have chosen not to pick up options on veteran goalkeeper Clint Irwin and Canada striker Tosaint Ricketts, and have agreed to terminate the contract of Spanish midfielder Ager Aketxe.

Irwin and Ricketts could still be back at BMO Field next season if a reduced-wage deal can be agreed with either player. The goalkeeper has lost his No. 1 spot to Alex Bono over the last couple of years, while Ricketts has never been a regular fixture in the first XI.

Aketxe made just 14 appearances for TFC after signing from Athletic Bilbao in February. He rejoined former side Cadiz on loan in July.

Meanwhile, Jason Hernandez and Jordan Hamilton are out of contract at the end of the year, while players whose contract options have been exercised include Drew Moor, Nick Hagglund, Jay Chapman, and Ashtone Morgan.

Youth prospects Ryan Telfer, Aidan Daniels, Julian Dunn, and Caleb Patterson-Sewell have also all been picked up for another year.

The loan deal of Auro Jr. and Lucas Janson will both expire on Dec. 31. Auro, on loan from Sao Paulo, was a regular starter on the right flank when fit, while Tigre's Janson scored five goals in under 900 minutes of game time.

"We are happy to bring back a high number of players that have contributed to our club over the past couple seasons as we continue to shape our roster ahead of the 2019 MLS season and CONCACAF Champions League," said Toronto FC Sr. Vice-President, Soccer Operations and General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko. "We will continue to have discussions with the players on loan and whose options were not exercised and those out of contract.

"We want to also acknowledge Clint, Tosaint, and Jason for their contributions to the club both on and off the field. They have played an instrumental part in building our club into one that competes for championships."